Chandra Shekhar Azad was one of the most formidable revolutionaries of India’s freedom struggle. Born as Chandra Shekhar Tiwari, he adopted the name ‘Azad’ (meaning free) as a mark of his commitment to never being captured alive by the British. Following the execution of Ram Prasad Bismil, Roshan Singh, Rajendra Nath Lahiri, and Ashfaqulla Khan after the Kakori train robbery, Azad took charge of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and transformed it into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). His leadership, military acumen, and unwavering determination made him a central figure in India’s revolutionary movement.

Revolutionary Path and Leadership in HSRA

The turning point in Azad’s revolutionary journey came in 1922 when Mahatma Gandhi called off the Non-Cooperation Movement following the Chauri Chaura incident. Many young nationalists, including Azad, felt disillusioned and turned to armed resistance against British rule.

Association with the HRA and Kakori Conspiracy (1925): Azad became actively involved with the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary group committed to overthrowing British rule through armed struggle. He played a key role in the Kakori train robbery in 1925, aimed at looting government treasury funds. While most of the conspirators were arrested and later executed, Azad managed to escape and remained underground.
Formation of the HSRA (1928): Azad, along with Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and others, reorganized the HRA into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928. Unlike the previous emphasis on simple armed struggle, HSRA was committed to socialist ideals and the complete overthrow of British imperialism. While Bhagat Singh was the ideological force behind the group, Azad was the military commander, responsible for planning and executing revolutionary activities.
Revenge for Lala Lajpat Rai’s Death (1928): Azad played a critical role in avenging the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, who had succumbed to injuries after a brutal lathi charge ordered by British officer James A. Scott. In December 1928, Azad, Bhagat Singh, and Rajguru executed the assassination of John Saunders, a British police officer mistakenly identified as Scott. During the escape, Azad killed another pursuing officer, demonstrating his combat prowess and strategic thinking.

Further Revolutionary Activities and Final Stand

The HSRA intensified its activities in the late 1920s:

Assembly Bombing Incident (1929): Azad supported Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt in their decision to throw bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi in April 1929. The act was intended as a symbolic protest against repressive British laws, not to cause harm. However, it led to a severe crackdown on HSRA members.
Crackdown and Martyrdom of Comrades (1931): With the arrest and execution of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev on March 23, 1931, the HSRA was left leaderless, and British intelligence aggressively pursued the remaining revolutionaries.
Last Battle at Alfred Park (1931): On February 27, 1931, British police learned of Azad’s presence at Alfred Park, Allahabad, where he was scheduled to meet fellow revolutionary Sukhdev Raj. Surrounded by police, Azad fought bravely, single-handedly holding off the officers while allowing his comrade to escape. Outnumbered and running out of ammunition, he chose to shoot himself rather than be captured, staying true to his vow of never being taken alive by the British.

Legacy and Impact

Chandra Shekhar Azad’s legacy is defined by his fearlessness, strategic brilliance, and deep commitment to India’s freedom. His contributions can be understood through three key aspects:

Symbol of Defiance: His name, ‘Azad’, became synonymous with independence and resistance, inspiring countless revolutionaries even after his death.
Beyond Caste and Religion: Unlike many leaders of his time, Azad’s movement transcended caste and religious divisions, fostering a spirit of national unity.
Vision for a Free India: He firmly believed in the necessity of a socialist and egalitarian India, free from both colonial oppression and internal inequalities.

Chandra Shekhar Azad’s role in the Indian freedom struggle remains one of the most inspiring tales of patriotism and sacrifice. His ability to evade British authorities, his leadership in HSRA, and his ultimate martyrdom continue to be celebrated as hallmarks of India’s revolutionary movement. His life serves as a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who fought fearlessly for India’s independence, making him an eternal icon in the history of India’s freedom struggle.

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